Mount Kinabalu: Croatian climber rescued after five-day search

A 46-year-old Croatian climber, Mauro Persic, has been rescued following a five-day search and rescue operation on Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia. The incident began on September 6 when the climber fell from a cliff.

Rescue teams, comprising 43 personnel from the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, Royal Malaysia Police, Sabah Parks, and other units, navigated treacherous terrain and heavy rain to reach the victim. The rescue involved a multi-stage relay, eventually using a ‘piggyback carry’ method with body harness carriers to transport the injured man from the Panalaban area to the Timpohon Gate.

Persic sustained injuries to his right leg and right ribs, along with minor abrasions to his hands. Upon reaching the Timpohon Gate at approximately 7:06 PM on September 10, he received initial medical treatment from Ministry of Health personnel before being transported by ambulance to Ranau Hospital.

Sabah Parks officials stated that the climber did not possess a required climbing permit and had entered the mountain area via an unofficial village route rather than the standard climbing paths. An investigation into the unauthorized entry is expected.